The 5 Best Subaru Outback Mattresses and Sleeping Pads

How to choose the right air mattress or sleeping pad for your Subaru Outback car camping adventures.

If you’re going car camping in your Subaru Outback, you’ll want to invest in a solid air mattress or sleeping pad. Don’t skimp on this one – I know from experience what it’s like to wake up with aches and pains when you sleep on a poor-quality mattress.

The best Subaru Outback mattress is comfortable and fits well in the back of your Outback. Plus, it’s lightweight and compact, so you can pack it up easily. It should also be durable enough that you’ll be able to use it over and over again on your adventures.

We put together this list of the top Subaru Outback mattresses and sleeping pads. Want to know why we chose each one? Read on!

• Best self-inflating insulated sleeping pads: Exped Megamat Duo 10 & Therm-a-Rest MondoKing
• Best air mattress: Wey & Fly & Pavoni

Can You Sleep in The Back of a Subaru Outback?

The answer is yes, and it can be quite comfy too. You just need to fold down the rear seats, roll out your Subaru Outback air mattress or sleeping bag, and you’re good to go. For most average-sized males (5’9″), sleeping in a Subaru Outback can be quite comfortable, and this works for couples too, because it’s wide enough to accommodate a partner that’s the same size or smaller. So go ahead and grab your single or twin-size Subaru Outback mattress or sleeping pad for an extra comfy experience while you’re on the road.

Read also: The Best Subaru Outback All Terrain Tires

What is the best size for a Subaru Outback air mattress?

The first thing you should do is decide if you want full coverage or not. If you’re sharing an air mattress or sleeping pad with a partner, or just need the whole area covered, then look for one with 72″ x 41″ x 4″ dimensions. This will fit the back of your Subaru Outback perfectly. If you’re sleeping alone and storing extra gear in the back of your Subaru, then you can get away with a single-sized mattress. The best air mattresses for Subaru Outbacks tend to have several extensions or panels that can be inflated or deflated to increase or reduce the width.

Sleeping pad or inflatable air mattress?

Ah, the age-old air mattress vs. sleeping pad debate. Air mattresses offer the most cushioning of the two options. If comfort is your overriding goal, an Outback air mattress might be the right choice for you. The downside is that they are more susceptible to punctures than a sleeping pad; while they can be patched, some people find them more hassle than they’re worth.  On the other hand, sleeping pads provide more insulation than an air mattress and are more portable. However, most tend to be pricier, but they are generally more durable. Certainly, either of these options will help make sleeping in Subaru Outback that much cozier.

Exped Megamat Duo 10 Insulated Self-Inflating Sleep Pad

This luxurious, comfortable, and insulated (R-Value: 8.1) sleeping pad is an excellent accessory to bring along on your camping or road trips. It expands to 4-5 inches thickness to provide comfy cushioning for a good night’s sleep. And unlike other mats, this one does not have raised edges– its surface is completely level from end to end, so there are no worries about rolling off at night. This Subaru Outback sleeping pad self-inflates, but if you want to speed up inflation or adjust firmness, there’s an included hand pump for that. The FlatValve technology means there are two separate valves for easy inflation, deflation, and adjustment of the sleeping pad’s pressure during use. It comes with a neat storage bag that has a roll-top opening and an adjustable carry strap for easier transport.

See the latest price and user reviews of Exped Megamat on Amazon

You might also like: Black Xprite foldable camping sleeping pad for Subaru Outback that turns your car back into a nice little resting space. It folds down in seconds and is strapped to the rear seats when not in use.  

Therm-a-Rest MondoKing 3D Self-Inflating Foam Car Camping Mattress

This is our standout pick for the best Subaru Outback car camping sleeping pad- and here is why. It self-inflates to a cushy 4’’ thickness and the 3D construction maximizes the sleeping area while also minimizing the pack size. In addition, the Subaru Outback sleeping pad features a soft and warm stretch knit cover, as well as 7.0R insulation value- meaning it will keep you warm and comfy in any condition or season. With dual valves (one for inflation, one for deflation), this sleeping pad will simply inflate on its own, just add a couple of extra breaths of air to adjust its firmness to your liking. Includes stuff sack for easy storage and comes in two sizes: large (77×25 inches) or the XXL (80 x 30 inches).

See the latest price and user reviews of the Therm-a-Rest MondoKing on Amazon

You might also like: Therm-a-Rest LuxuryMap, a one-person car sleeping pad that inflates to 3.5’’ thickness and is just as comfy. Other top Subaru car sleeping pad brands include Sea to Summit, Big Agnes, and the budget Klymit sleeping pad, an Amazon bestseller.

Read also: 11 Most Essential Things To Keep In Your Car During Winter

These air mattresses are comfortable options that will work just as well for the majority of Subaru Outbacks and other SUVs.

Wey & Fly Subaru Outback Air Mattress

With a 4.5 rating on Amazon, this air mattress is a hit amongst users, thanks to its comfortability, versatile design, and durability. It is designed to fit perfectly in the back of your Subaru Outback, but it can also double as a sleeping mat in your tent or home. The thick suede covering is warm and soft, and the mattress itself has four panels so you can inflate them how you choose: fully if you’re sharing with someone else, or just the main chamber if you’re riding solo. Separate panels also allow for different levels of inflation so each person can set their preferred level firmness.

See the latest price and reviews of the Wey & Fly Outback camping air mattress on Amazon

Either way, the bed for Subaru Outback will keep its shape without tears or leaks—and can be inflated in minutes using the included air pump that plugs into your cigarette lighter.  Overall, one of the best Subaru Outback camping mattresses on the market at an excellent price.

Pavoni Subaru Outback Mattress

This reliable, compact, and easy-to-set-up air mattress is exactly what you need for your next trip. Features a strong construction and will not leak when it’s inflated. Plus, it comes with everything you need: an inbuilt pillow that can be separately inflated, handy repair patches in case anything goes wrong and an electric air pump to inflate the Subaru Outback sleeping mat.

See the latest price and reviews of the Pavoni air mattress.

This reliable, compact, and easy-to-set-up air mattress is exactly what you need for your next trip. Features a strong construction and will not leak when it’s inflated. Plus, it comes with everything you need: an inbuilt pillow that can be separately inflated, handy repair patches in case anything goes wrong and an electric air pump to inflate the Subaru Outback sleeping mat.

Looking for a budget Subaru Outback air mattress? Check out these affordable air mattresses of similar quality: Berocia SUV Air Mattress & QDH SUV Air Mattress.

Comparison Table of the Best Subaru Outback Mattresses and Sleeping Pads

Subaru Outback Matresses Brands	Package	Sizes	Colors
Exped Megamat Duo 10	Sleeping pad, Mini Pump & storage bag	Duo (Long Wide, 77.6 x 52 in.) & Duo (Medium Wide, 72 x 41 in.) & more	Green, Ruby red
Therm-a-Rest MondoKing	Sleeping pad, Pump  & storage bag	Large – 77 x 25 Inches & XX-Large – 80 x 30 Inches	Lyons Blue
Xprite foldable camping sleeping pad	NitePad & 2 Bungee Cords	74.8″ x 41.7″ x 1.7″	Black
Wey & Fly Subaru Outback Air Mattress	SUV air bed,Carry bag; Electric car air pump; Repair kit	76″L x 51″W x 4.72″T	Blue and Beige
Pavoni Subaru Outback Mattress	Car Air Mattress, Electric mattress pump, Strap hanger, Repair patch with glue,Storage bag	74″L x 57″W x 8.7″T	Grey

Why sleep in the Back of Your Subaru Outback?

Whether you are car camping or road-tripping to your next vacation destination (and taking breaks at truck stops), sleeping in a Subaru Outback provides a solid shelter option. With a few pillows and blankets, you can transform your Outback into a cozy refuge and save tons of hotel money.

For those who want to explore remote locations, car camping in Subaru Outback is safer than sleeping out in the open or under a tent. Unless someone breaks your car window or picks the locks, you’re going to be pretty safe from animals, crooks, and weather elements that could make for a restless night

There are other perks to sleeping in your Outback: if you get caught in colder weather than you were prepared for, being able to run the heat or AC can really help you out. Finally setting up camp in your Outback is a quick affair compared to having to set up a tent.

However, once you roll out your air mattress or sleeping pad, you will have less room to store your cargo (always leave your driver’s seat free in case you have to get away quickly). This means you have to pack light (or get this waterproof car roof cargo bag)

Subaru Outback Car Camping Tips

Sleeping in your Subaru Outback has its challenges. You’ve got less space than usual and you’ll need to figure out where to put all your stuff. The best option is to pack light, or if that isn’t an option, install a roof cargo box. Another place you can store your stuff is on the front passenger seat (but never in the driver’s seat—you need to be able to make a quick getaway if necessary).

But don’t forget to crack open your windows at night—otherwise condensation will build up inside and you’ll wake up soaking wet! If you’re concerned about bugs or dust getting in through the windows while they’re open, hang up this convenient window meshes before bed. We also recommend these magnetic blackout curtains if you want to sleep in late – not only do they help block out the morning sun, but they also give you an extra layer of privacy. That’s not all; they also help to keep your car cool when temperatures outside are on the rise.

If you’re anything like me, you probably have a hard time sleeping in your Subaru Outback or anywhere other than your bed. The solution? Pack things will help you relax and fall asleep, such as these comfortable sleep wireless headphones headbands (if you prefer to doze off to your favorite jam or podcast). If you need to read a bit before dozing off, remember to pack your rechargeable reading light. These are soft foam earplugs are great for light sleepers or you might also like this white noise sound machine with adjustable volume and six natural, relaxing sounds.

Final Thoughts

The Subaru Outback is a fantastic car for those who enjoy traveling off the beaten path and exploring the great outdoors. While it’s not a camper, it can be set up to function like one. By taking advantage of all of the space provided by the car and improvising, you can make your Subaru Outback a comfortable place to sleep, eat, and relax.

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Recent Updates

April 28, 2022: Updated the recommendations. Added Klymit sleeping pad.

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